Create Your Own Home Gaming Experience On A Budget

Gaming has captured the hearts of consumers worldwide. In 2018, Americans spent over $43 million on gaming videos, showing a record-breaking 18 percent growth from the previous year. With additions such as virtual reality, gesture-controlled gaming, and augmented reality, the industry has come a long way from computer card solitaire games showing no signs of slowing down. In addition to mobile platforms, many homeowners are choosing to set up a dedicated game room in the comfort of their homes.

Adding a games room in homes today is a part of many homebuyers' checklists and can boost home prices by 5 percent. However, the process can also come with formidable costs. Equipment and accessories alone can easily cost hundreds of dollars to get started. Whether you are a die-hard gamer or simply looking to update your home, here's how to create a unique and budget-friendly gaming experience for you and your family.

 

Utilize Extra Space Or Explore Wallet-Friendly Add-Ons

One of the first considerations that comes to mind when creating an at-home gaming den is its placement. This is an easy decision for those with a spare bedroom or office. However, those who find their homes occupied may need to be more creative. Shifting around and reorganizing your home's layout can help you free up space.

When doing this, particularly for those with small spaces, you will want to utilize your square footage wisely. This means envisioning your perfect idea for your gaming room and the equipment (games) you would like to fit in the space. For example, any plans to include a gaming table, such as a pool or air hockey, should consist of additional space (3-5 feet) around the table to allow for unrestricted movement of players. 

You will also want to consider the placement of power sources. Electronic games and consoles must be located within a plugging distance to be used and charged at intervals. 

Of course, there is also the option of creating additional space through a home extension or using cabin/ shed additions to extend your home. Using cabin additions is a great way to introduce more space into the home and create a dedicated gaming room space. Remember that your state zoning rules and property lines must be followed, so be sure to check these before building and deciding on the addition size. Y

ou will also need to secure the services of a builder and architect to map out your floor plan and precise positioning to match your current home's roof shape and attachment. There is also the option of having it preassembled and delivered to you. Consumers can choose from various models and floorplans and expect to have their prefab cabins in 1-2 weeks. Careful planning ahead, budgeting, and involving DIY where possible can help reduce those costs to a manageable amount. Prefab cabin suppliers also offer financing and home equity loans. 

Consider PreLoved When Accessorizing And Equipping Your Gaming Den

Once the space has been created, it is time to bring your dream gaming den to life with the addition of the perfect furniture and equipment. However, this can cost a pretty penny. While the final cost will depend on the equipment, games, and themes you have in mind, you can also incorporate some clever swaps when outfitting your room.

Consider going preloved when choosing furniture, including gaming chairs, recliners, and electronics such as gaming consoles and television screens. Preloved items come heavily discounted and, in some cases, are barely used. This means you end up saving yourself hundreds of dollars. If you include a video console such as an NES or PS4 in your room, check out online preloved platforms for used game discs or garage sales. 

Invest In Soundproofing And Lighting- But Do The Work Yourself

The perfect lighting and sound are essential to the ideal gaming experience. Each gaming gadget in your den will have its power set and HDMI cables connecting it to its output source (television). With multiple consoles and power sources, this can become tricky and unsightly. It can also be solved using an extension cord and clever bundling ideas. Positioning will be critical to avoiding cross-room wiring and disguises such as covering wires with the carpet or bundling them with cable protectors can solve this issue.

When it comes to sound,  you may want to consider investing in soundproofing. Gaming dens can get loud and disrupt other areas of your home and its inhabitants. While a contractor can easily do this job for you, there is also the option of DIY if you wish to save some money. Start with insulation, noise-absorbing drywalls, and thicker carpets that may muffle the noise. 

Your home gaming den can be as luxurious and personalized as you wish. Yet, it does not have to be expensive. Simple tricks incorporated into the building and creation process can help you save money along the way and, in the end, relax and enjoy the excitement it offers without the hassle of financial worries.